‘Good lops’: Missing Missouri student Riley Strain's last text revealed as search efforts continue
NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE: As the search for missing University of Missouri student Riley Strain persists, new details have emerged regarding his last communication before vanishing.
The 22-year-old disappeared on the evening of March 8 after reportedly being ejected from a bar in Nashville, and becoming separated from his friends.
Timeline of Riley Strain's disappearance
Search efforts were initiated following a report from Strain's friends, yet authorities have uncovered little beyond the discovery of his bank card near the Cumberland River more than a week after his disappearance. The circumstances surrounding his removal from Luke's 32 Bridge Food + Drink, owned by country singer Luke Bryan, remain unclear.
The establishment stated that Strain was asked to leave based on conduct standards and had been served only one alcoholic beverage along with two glasses of water. Recently, Chris Dingman, a family friend, disclosed the content of his final text message, sent to a girl he was conversing with. The message, reading 'Good lops', puzzled both Dingman and the recipient, reflecting what Dingman believes to be Strain's mental state at the time, reported Independent.
Further investigation into Strain's movements before his disappearance revealed CCTV footage showing him being escorted out of the bar by a fraternity brother. Subsequently, he was observed crossing the street, denied entry into another establishment, and embarking on what Dingman described as 'his journey'. Additional footage depicted Strain interacting with a police officer minutes later, appearing coherent and untroubled.
Authorities dismiss foul play in Riley Strain's disappearance despite stepfather's concerns
Despite speculation regarding possible distress, authorities maintain there is no evidence of foul play in Strain's disappearance. His stepfather, Chris Whiteid, disputed claims of excessive alcohol consumption, questioning whether other factors may have contributed to his demeanor.
"I’ve done a fair amount of drinking in my life, and I still question whether it was alcohol or something else,” said Mr. Whiteid reflecting on Mr. Strain's apparent loss of balance in CCTV footage. He additionally asserted that following his stepson’s disappearance, he has been contacted by approximately 10 individuals who allege they were drugged while patronizing bars in Nashville.
Anyone with information about Riley’s disappearance is asked to call police at 615-862-8600. Anyone on the University of Missouri’s campus who has any information is asked to call MU Police at 573-882-7201.
